-ISAIAH 9:6
A
fter almost thirty years, I’m writing my last epistle. What a ride it has been—and since I’m writing this from the heart of Africa, it clearly has not been a boring journey! This morning I preached in a church with no electricity and a tin roof, and they couldn’t stop thanking us for the classrooms we built that double as Sunday school facilities, where little ones learn English by hearing stories of the Bible. The honor of representing CPC’s compassion for the least and lost and left behind is just part of how Laura and I feel blessed by God; we’re also grateful for how CPC has shaped our daughters into global Christians, with hearts for God’s “rescue operation” throughout the world, all because you invited them to witness and be a part of God’s work. Laura and I often say our time serving CPC has been the privilege of our adult lives. As we head into retirement, we want to honor Jesus as the center of our lives as we continue to learn to follow Him with heart, soul, mind, and body. As my life verse testifies, we proclaim that His grace alone is able to change lives: “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect” (I Corinthians 15:10). CPC has always been far more than a beautiful facility. It is the people we have partnered with both inside and outside these walls that will leave a lasting impression on us. It is in people that we have watched the Spirit heal and inspire, attract and grow: in marking moments like baptisms, weddings, and memorials; on Sundays as we celebrate and worship, make relationships, and seek to become followers of Jesus; and when we go out to a world to where His voice is often lost in the bedlam. For thirty years we have had the privilege here of seeing “thy Kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven.” And together we wait . . . for what? Advent is our season of waiting. We look forward to the arrival of Jesus the King, come to rescue and restore His Kingdom “on earth as it is in heaven.” We tell again the story of the King who offers hope, love for broken hearts, peace for troubled souls, and joy, joy unquenchable, joy for the world!
O come let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord. Thank you for letting us adore Him together!
JOHN CROSBY serves as S E N I O R P A S T O R
CPC LIFE
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CHRIS TM A S E VE W O R S H I P M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 4
Join us as we celebrate the gift of Jesus, our King of Kings. A L L G E N E R AT I O N S S E R V I C E S
11:00AM, 1:00 & 3:00PM Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years TRADITIONAL COMMUNION SERVICE
5:00PM Childcare available for 6 weeks to 2 years TRADITIONAL LESSONS & CAROLS SERVICE (WITH CHOIR)
9:00PM No childcare available CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION SERVICE
11:00PM No childcare available
W
e all have seasons of waiting. Whether you have finally gotten your driving permit and you’re waiting to get to the next level of independence, or you are waiting for your dream college/ dream job/dream house, or you have one year left before you can retire— and you are beyond ready for the wait to end! I am halfway through one of the most classic waiting seasons in life: expecting my first child. My husband and I realize we are nearing the end of one life chapter and entering another. It is a unique blend of anticipation and fear. Anticipation of this great gift. Fear of the unknown, of not being ready. As Advent begins, I try to imagine what God’s people felt like as they awaited the promised Savior. It had been 400 years since the prophet Malachi spoke about the Savior’s return—not to mention thousands of years since the other prophets, messengers, and priests described a great coming king. I imagine the waiting was excruciating. Their faith was tested, and I’m certain they questioned the truthfulness of God’s promises. As Christians today, we see the full story of God’s rescue plan for us and His faith-
fulness. And unlike the Israelites, we enter a time of unique anticipation as we await the birth of Jesus, our greatest gift. So rather than just counting down the days to Christmas, here are three ways you can embrace this time of waiting.
P R E P A R E
The prophets told God’s people over and over to prepare for the coming King. I don’t think that means you have to have all the right “stuff” for the holidays—but to prepare your heart. Make a commitment to pray over Advent. Think about the wonder and awe Christmas brings. Prepare special ways to make Jesus the center of the season.
E N J O Y the M O M E N T
I am sure God’s people felt like time stood still as they waited for Jesus, but that is a rarity in our world today. Advent is a time to enjoy the moment. How do you turn waiting into anticipation? Take a survey of your surroundings, the people you interact with, and the way you feel. You may never have this moment again. Make each day of Advent distinct—read an Old Testament prophesy about Jesus’ birth, or light
an Advent candle at dinner, taking a quiet moment of reflection.
F I N D C O N N E C T I O N S in C O M M U N I T Y
I recently read Advent (and other church seasons) is like breathing with the Body of Christ. When we are all inhaling and exhaling together, you see true beauty in the community. Use Advent to connect with people— extend an invitation to someone new for a coffee or meal. Attend each weekly Advent service. Chat with your neighbor. Serve at a local food shelf. Connections with people in and outside of our community can give you life while you wait. I can hear my mom saying, “Waiting is just a part of life.” As a child (and adult), times of waiting can be some of the most challenging seasons we face, but God is in it. He is a part of the waiting. He is a part of anticipation. He is in Advent.
J O R D Y N FA R R I S serves as A S S O C I AT E D I R E C T O R of E L E M E N TA R Y
CPC LIFE
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CHRISTMAS OFFERING 2018
WHEN WE INVEST IN KIDS, WE CHANGE THE COURSE OF ENTIRE COMMUNITIES.
C
hildren born into poverty, whether living in Minneapolis or Moyo, Zambia, are more likely than not to remain poor their whole lives. This Christmas, CPC is partnering with two organizations—one local, one global—who fight the cycle of poverty through investing in children and their parents. Here in Minneapolis, we’re partnering with Urban Ventures. Research shows that education is the brightest hope for breaking the cycle of generational poverty. And knowing that, Urban Ventures has established one bold goal: to prepare and send every child in their neighborhood to college by 2040. In Zambia, we are partnering with World Vision to impact the lives of children by focusing on the first 1,000 days of life—from pregnancy to the age of two. World Vision’s dream is to ensure that every mother and child has access to nutritious food, clean water, and basic health services, setting the stage for the future health and well-being of whole communities.
Our hope begins with Jesus, the Christ Child.
Together, let’s share the living Hope with our neighbors near and far. To give, mark your check “Christmas Offering” in the memo line or visit CPCONLINE.ORG/GIVE
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THE NEED IN MINNEAPOLIS
636 There are 636 youth living in poverty within Urban Ventures’ 25-block area.
62% OF FAMILIES
make less than $35,000/year (average family size is 4.5)
(51% poverty rate for ages 5-11)
57% OF FAMILIES
are headed by a single female with no husband present
$18,404
Median household income in the Phillips community
THE RESPONSE:
THE KEY IS EDUCATION. To meet their goal, UV dreams of establishing: • Birth-Age 5 Learning Center • K-8 Academy
1 OF EVERY 13 CHILDREN DIES before their 5th birthday.
1 IN EVERY 59 WOMEN DIES from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. Lack of access to CLE AN WATER, inadequate health facilities, and poor sanitation are often to blame.
While maintaining UV’s: • • • •
K-12 after-school tutoring/mentoring/arts Athletic activities Nutrition education Family Center
THE RESPONSE: World Vision is working to provide in-home health counseling for women to educate them about: Healthy pregnancy, newborn care, immunizations, and breastfeeding throughout the first 1000 days of a child’s life
They also work with communities to increase access to safe water through: •d rilling new wells and rehabilitating existing ones • b uilding latrines and hand washing facilities in schools
Children that are safe and valued, cared for by their families, and educated are change agents for their communities. Your gift this Christmas empowers Urban Ventures and World Vision to bring hope and love in the name of Jesus.
CPC LIFE
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Help others experience the joy of giving! This year CPC is partnering with Lighthouse MPLS Church to provide 3,000 gifts for the Webber Park Community’s Gift Store.
There are many ways you can help make Christmas affordable! Provide
Organize
Transport & Setup
Assist
If you picked up a gift selection card, please return gifts to CPC on December 1/2, 5, or 8/9.
Volunteers are needed on all return dates (December 1/2, 5, or 8/9) to sort and box the gifts for delivery to the Webber Gift Store.
On December 14, help transport gifts from CPC to the Webber Community Center and/or volunteer to set up the Webber Gift Store.
Help community members select and purchase gifts at the Webber Gift Store on December 15.
Sign up to volunteer at cpconline.org/events.
Saturday, December 8 • 9:00-11:00AM Join women of all ages for brunch, music, laughter, and Christmas insights from an unlikely source in God’s Word. Laura Crosby speaks on “Holiday Help from Hanging with Sheep.” Plus, Katy Crosby shares her faith story, and Sara Lightbody provides holiday music.
Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
S TA FF SP OT LIGH T COURTNEY MCKINLEY HOMETOWN: East Troy, WI FAMILY: husband, Josh (married 13 years); son, Harrison (9), daughter, Evelyn (8) HOBBIES: cooking, shopping, decorating, creative house projects, and drinking coffee FAVORITE BOOK: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen GUILTY PLEASURE: chips, french fries, salty fried food
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE KEY THINGS YOU DO FOR CPC? I work with David Peterson and Mara Amiot on the Finance Team. I help keep all the details in line and everyone moving in the same direction. I’m passionate about details and holding people accountable, because not everyone’s gifts are in the details! But if you don’t have that balance, it’s easy for people to get off track or off budget or have bills accidentally go unpaid.
HOW LONG H AV E YOU BEEN AT CPC? It will be four years in January. I worked with David’s wife at a preschool, and she noticed that I was writing down specific nap times, and I mentioned my finance background. So she got my resume and sent it over to David. It felt like a “God moment,” finding this job and being able to work part-time here.
W H AT DO YOU LOV E MOS T A BOUT YOUR JOB? I love that two plus two always equals four—because life doesn’t always make sense, but math does! I’m a peopleperson, so I can help people with their timecard or other things that feel annoying for most people. I love being able to make things easier or smoother for them, answer their questions, and help problem-solve.
I’m perfect at anything. Ultimately, it doesn’t matter what other people think about me—the person I want to please and impress is God. So instead of caring about if I fail, God’s just been challenging me to choose brave. After being hospitalized recently, I just really felt like God laid it on my heart to do a social media post about it to thank all the people who had helped us, but also to challenge people who aren’t engaged in a church community to find one. I know there are people in my world who maybe have been burned by the church or who don’t even believe in God, but the idea of community might be really enticing to them. And I thought, I don’t want to write that. But I really felt like God wanted me to. So I was brave, and I put it out there. I’ve had a lot of people say it ministered to them, but I don’t know if anyone went to church because of it. That was just one small thing. I really want to be brave in every area of my life and to encourage my kids to do the same: just try, even if you fail, and try again.
WHAT DOES “JESUS THE KING” BRING TO MIND FOR YOU? It makes me remember that I’m called, chosen, and anchored in Him. That because He is the King, I’m empowered to go out and do His work. I don’t have to prove anything, I can just go out and be who He created me to be.
W H AT H A S GOD BEEN TE ACHING YOU L ATELY? Brave has been a word that He’s brought to me a lot this year. I’ve been reading Scriptures about being brave, and it’s everywhere at Hobby Lobby! I’m realizing that being brave doesn’t mean I have all the answers or that
COURTNEY MCKINLEY serves as FIN A NCE A SSOCIATE
CPC LIFE
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HAPPENINGS EVENTS CANDLELIGHT MEMORIAL SERVICE
Tuesday, December 4 • 7:00PM • Sanctuary Begin Advent with a time to honor those you have lost over the years and set your heart on the coming Messiah. Dessert follows in the Great Room.
WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Saturday, December 8 • 9:00-11:00AM • Westview Room Join women of all ages for food, music, laughter, and Christmas insights from an unlikely source in God’s Word. Laura Crosby speaks on “Holiday Help from Hanging with Sheep.” Plus, Katy Crosby shares her faith story and Sara Lightbody provides holiday music. Cost: $15. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
ADVENT/CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS
Due in the office by Wednesday, December 12 To donate toward CPC’s beautiful poinsettias and greens in memory or in honor of someone, fill out a form in the office, at the Blue Wall, or at cpconline.org/events. Suggested donation: $15 per plant.
MID-MONTH CHAPEL SERVICE
Wednesday, December 19 • 12:00PM • Chapel A traditional service with a short message by Pastor James Madsen, hymns, Communion, and prayers. Lunch follows in the Westview Room.
WEDNESDAY NIGHT: CHOIR & CLUB
Wednesdays (no programs on December 26 or January 2) • 5:00-7:30PM Dinner (5:00-6:15PM): Enjoy dinner with your family and fellowship with other CPCers at our weekly dinner. Food options will change weekly. Choir for K-5th graders (5:30-6:15PM): Develop a love for music, learn biblical truths, and improve musical and dramatic skills, all while praising God! Kids participate in worship services and special programs throughout the year. Club for 2nd-5th graders (6:25-7:30PM): A dynamic mix of fun, learning, and prayer, Club encourages kids to grow in Christ and in friendships. All students in Grades 2-5 will start in the Westview Room for a time of fun, worship, and teaching. Then they’ll split into smaller groups by age for community building activities and to understand how God’s Word applies to their lives. Cost: $30/first child, $20/second child, $10/third child; max $60/family Sign up: cpconline.org/kids
PARTICPATE IN THE FILMING OF THE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT Tuesday, December 11 and/or Thursday, December 13 • 6:00-8:00PM Kids of all ages are welcome to help in a retelling of the Christmas story to be shown Monday, December 24 at the 11:00AM, 1:00PM, or 3:00PM All Generations Services. Sign up for one or both nights of filming. Come dressed as a shepherd, sheep, or angel. Sign up and more info: cpconline.org/events
STUDENTS
MEET GOD ON YOUR MAT: HOLY YOGA
Holy Yoga offers connection to Jesus and restoration for the body through Scripture, meditation, and movement. For class times and locations: cpconline.org/interest-groups
REGISTRATION
All 6th-12th graders must register in order to participate in Student Ministries programs and small groups. Sign up: cpconline.org/students
KIDS WEEKEND PROGRAMS More details at
cpconline.org/weekend-programs.
Saturday 5:15PM service: Loving childcare provided (6 weeks-3 years) Sundays: Kids attending programming must check-in at the Family Check-In area. All kids are welcome to pick up a worship/activity bag while in the service. An offering is collected during both hours of programming and will be donated to La Charité School in the Congo.
Nursery (Infants & Toddlers): Loving childcare provided. Sprouts (2-year-olds): Play and learn about the Bible with weekly lessons and art projects. JAM (3-5-year-olds): Have fun and learn through Bible lessons, prayer, art, and worship. Elementary Programming (K-5th): 9:30 AM Sunday School Hour: Kids are grouped by their grade—K/1st, 2nd/3rd, or 4th/5th—and go deep into God’s Word in a fun and interactive way. 11:00AM Kids’ Church: Kids worship all together as a community and hear an age-appropriate Bible lesson. They then divide into grade groups for exploratory activities.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL ACCESS
Wednesdays (no program on December 26 or January 2) • 6:25-7:30PM A high-energy, engaging program for 6th grade students. Awesome high school leaders lead small groups. Please make sure your student is regisbrooksw@cpconline.org tered.
ELEVATE
Wednesdays (no program on December 26 or January 2)• 6:25-7:30PM A night of fun, large-group learning, and small-group discussion for 7th-8th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. vanc@cpconline.org
HIGH SCHOOL COMMITMENT CLASS
Wednesdays (no program on December 26 or January 2) • 6:25-7:30PM • Anderson Hall A night of fun, large-group learning, and small-group discussion for 9th graders. Please make sure your student is registered. ashleyc@cpconline.org
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515 TEN12
Wednesdays (no program on December 26 or January 2) • 7:45-9:00 PM A great night full of fun and an authentic space for kids to just be themselves. We start the night in Westview for large group learning followed by small group time to process what you just heard. If you have questions or want to register your student, reach out to ericaf@cpconline.org
SPECIAL NEEDS TAPESTRY
Tuesdays, December 4, 11, & 18 • 6:30-7:30PM • Anderson Hall CPC’s ministry for kids and students with special needs explores who God is and how we can have a relationship with Him through Bible study, service projects, games, guest speakers, and story/drama. vanc@cpconline.org
MOSAIC WORSHIP SERVICE
Sunday, December 16 • 10:45AM • Westview Mosaic celebrates that we are all children of God, and all are invited to worship God in our own way. This service is led mostly by students with special needs. Noises, sounds, and movements are welcome—they are all pleasing to God! Brunch is provided following worship for a time of fellowship and vanc@cpconline.org food.
ADULTS MIXED IN THE WORD
Mondays • 9:30-11:30AM • Room 116 OR Tuesdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 116 James Madsen leads this discussion-oriented study of the Gospel of Luke for men and women. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
SUPERNATURAL PARENTING
Wednesdays (No class on December 26 or January 2) • 6:25-7:30PM Fellowship Hall Drop off your kids at Club and gain insight and encouragement for this high calling of being a mom or dad. We’re so excited to partner with our own CPCer, Becky Danielson—national speaker, author, educator—who leads this faith-filled parenting class. This is a year-long class—come when you can! Childcare will be provided for 1st grade and under. Cost: $40 for materials. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays • 11:00AM-12:00PM • Room 303 Rick Byron leads this lively discussion on the book of James. We meet every Wednesday except when Edynamoes is held. Sign up: cpconline.org/classes
STARTING POINT
Wednesdays starting January 9 • 6:25-7:30PM • CPC The Bible is God’s epic story about His desire for a relationship with you. Discover how the story started, where it’s going, and find your place in it! Led by Dave and Laura Scherf. Childcare will be provided for 1st grade and under. Cost: $10. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY
Thursdays starting January 17 • 6:30-8:00PM • Anderson Hall This nine-week series from Dave Ramsey offers practical, biblical resources for financial management. FPU will help you take control of your money, plan for your future, and transform your life. Cost: discounted price of $90/household for the first twelve households to register, then current price on Ramsey website. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
SUNDAY COMMUNITIES
Sundays • 9:30 or 10:45AM (no meeting December 23 or 30) More than just “Sunday school,” Sunday Communities foster a sense of belonging and growth with people of similar interests or life stages.
•E 3: millenial couples (9:30AM - Room 116) •C ATALYST: couples with young children (9:30AM - Room 201 & 202) •M IXED TAPES: primarily 30s (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall West) •S .A.L.T.: 40s & 50s (9:30AM - Fellowship Hall East) •A .C.T.S.: late 50s & up (9:20AM - Fellowship Hall Center) •M ORE: active retired (10:45AM - Fireside Room) •C REDO: intergenerational (10:45AM - Room 10) Learn more: cpconline.org/sunday-communities
SMALL GROUPS
CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. •2 0s & 30s: 2nd, 4th, and 5th Tuesdays • 7:30-9:00PM • CPC •S oul Keepers (50s & up): Every other Wednesday • 7:00-8:30PM • St. Louis Park • 30s Couples: First Thursdays • 7:00-8:30PM • Member homes •C hrist in Career: 1st & 3rd Saturdays • 8:30-10:00AM • CPC •4 0s-50s Couples: Alternate Sunday and Thursdays twice a month • 7:15-8:45PM • Member homes
MEN SMALL GROUPS
CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. •W ednesday Morning Group: Wednesdays • 6:30AM • CPC •T he Dads’ Group: Wednesdays • 6:30-7:30PM • CPC •T hursday Morning Groups: Thursdays • 7:00-8:00AM • CPC •F riday Guys’ Group: Fridays • 6:10-7:00AM • Calvary Church in Edina •S AM (Saturday AM) Group: Saturdays • 8:00-9:30AM • CPC
WOMEN WOMEN IN THE WORD
Mondays starting January 7 • 9:30-11:30AM • Anderson Hall With a jam-packed life, what’s missing is space—space for God to speak, and room for you to hear. It’s time to set aside the activities and busyness that swallow up rest and peace. It’s time for us to breathe and build margin into our lives for God. Join us for Priscilla Shirer’s Breathe study and discover God’s gift of Sabbath. Five sessions include DVD teaching, small group conversation, fellowship, and prayer. Cost: $14. CPC LIFE
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HAPPENINGS
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
NEEDLEWORK GUILD
Saturdays, December 8 and January 12 • 10:00AM-2:00PM • Fellowship Hall Our mission is to make warm garments and blankets for local agencies that serve those in need. We have yarn, fabric, and knitters to get you started. Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769
RUTH CIRCLE Meets every Wednesday • 9:30AM On the first and third Wednesdays, we meet in a home for food, fellowship, devotions, and prayers. On the other Wednesdays, we serve at Feed My Starving Children and at CPC. Barb Bucha at 952.470.4414
TUESDAY AFTERNOON WOMEN’S STUDY
HORIZONS (ACTIVE RETIRED-AGE)
Tuesdays • 1:00-2:30PM • Anderson Hall Carolyn Beatty leads a Bible study on 1 Corinthians. This group generates lively discussions and cares for one another. Judy Romine at 952.929.4983
MOM’S MORNING (for moms of young children)
LARGE GROUP 2nd & 4th Wednesdays (no meeting December 26) • 9:30-11:30AM • Westview On December 12, we’ll enjoy a Christmas Brunch while Pastor Jody Phenow shares, “Mary, Motherhood, and Christmas.” Her faith was unshakable; her courage was remarkable. Join us as we take an in-depth look at the life of Mary, a simple peasant girl, used by God to change the world. On January 9, Steve Wiens speaks. Limited childcare available. Program cost: $30; childcare cost: $25/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/moms-morning SMALL GROUP Meet 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM Groups allow you to develop deeper relationships through Bible study, prayer, fellowship, and Christ-centered support. Limited childcare available. Childcare cost: $25/child. Sign up: cpconline.org/moms-morning
MOMS IN THE MIDDLE (for moms of tweens and teens)
LARGE GROUP Thursdays, December 6 and January 10 • 9:45-11:30AM • Anderson Hall In December, Bev Coniaris, former BSF Teaching Leader, encourages us with “Christmas Through the Eyes of Jesus’ Parents.” Also, be inspired by a demonstration of how to wrap your Christmas gifts in prayer. In January, Robin Nordhues takes us into the New Year with “Organizing Your Home: From Chaos to Control.” Cost: $5 at the door. For more details: cpconline.org/moms-in-the-middle
SMALL GROUPS
CPC offers a variety of small groups to help you connect with others and to deepen your relationship with Jesus. For more details and to sign up, visit cpconline.org/groups. • Monday Evening Moms’ Group: 1st Mondays • nearby home • Titus 2 Women: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 9:30-11:30AM • CPC • Wednesday Night Moms’ Group: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesdays • 6:157:30PM • CPC
OLDER ADULTS CIRCLES (women
60+) Circles combine fellowship, learning, and service in a small group setting. Guests and new members always welcome! ESTHER CIRCLE Thursday, January 9 (not meeting in December) • 10:00AM • nearby home All women are welcome to join us for a Bible study on prayer and fellowship. shellienw@gmail.com LYDIA & MARTHA CIRCLES Wednesday, December 19 • 10:30AM • Room 113 We gather to share Christmas traditions, memories, and treats. Judy Romine 952.929.4983; Pat Haberkorn at 952.941.4188
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Saturday, December 8 • 6:30PM • Fellowship Hall Horizons is an inviting community of active retirement-age singles and couples, experiencing and sharing the good we see all around us! Celebrate Christmas with a delicious meal and musical entertainment provided by After 5, a vocal jazz and swing group. Cost: $25. Sign up: Great Room on Sunday mornings or cpconline.org/events
EDYNAMOES
Wednesday, December 5 • 11:30 AM • Fellowship Hall Join us for a holiday lunch followed by a delightful Norwegian musical program presented by mother-daughter team Jan Ulvin and Rachel Jensen. They play the Hardanger fiddle and wear the traditional bunad costume. Cost: $5. Please bring Jerry's cash receipts and pop/can tabs. Cash/toy donations for Christmas will be collected. Sign up by December 2: Cleo Wedge at 952.922.2769
CARE GROUPS LGBTQ FAMILY GROUP
This group is for parents and family members of someone who is LGBTQ. Discuss together how to best love and support our loved one and each other. rgarton1@msn.com
NEW! DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
Tuesdays through January 15 • 6:30-8:00PM • Room 205 This group is for people who are recently divorced or in the process of divorce. We welcome you wherever you are on the emotional spectrum. Come every week or for the topics that are most relevant for you. Details at: cpconline.org/care
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Saturday, December 8 (Fireside Room), Fridays, December 14 and January 11 (Anderson Hall) • 10:00AM to 12:00PM • Usually Meets 2nd Friday and 4th Saturday of the month but varies at holidays This ministry seeks to share God’s love, comfort, and peace through the knitting and gifting of shawls. Prayers for the recipient are knit into each shawl. Newcomers are welcome and tutoring is provided. Janice Velgersdyk at 612.986.5902
GRACE & HOPE FOR OUR CHILDREN
Tuesday, December 18 • 7:00-8:30PM • Room 306 • meets 3rd Tuesdays Does your child experience emotional or mental health issues? You are not alone. Join other parents, friends, and caregivers as we care for one another on our journeys. Meetings include support, fellowship, and occasional guest speakers. dbrown@dcbrowninc.com
GRIEF RECOVERY
Tuesday, January 8 • 6:00-8:30PM • Fireside Room • meets 2nd Tuesdays There will be no meeting in December due to the candlelight memorial service. Grief Recovery is for those who have lost a loved one. We experience God’s hope and healing through fellowship and prayer, and sharing a meal. In January, Missions Pastor Emily Hamilton will speak. No reservation needed. debbiem@cpconline.org
CPCONLINE.ORG • 952.920.8515
S.T.A.R.S.
(Short Term Assistance Reaching Seniors) is a new ministry designed to support seniors at home during their recovery from an accident, illness, or fall. Services include transportation to doctor/physical therapy appointments, grocery shopping, light housekeeping, and more! Judy Brink at 952.920.4364
SERVE HERE LOVE JESUS AND LOVE KIDS?
Want children to love Jesus and grow close to others at church? Research indicates adult engagement helps make their faith real! We have various ways to volunteer, from weekly to monthly opportunities. Let us know you are interested: karenr@cpconline.org
A.R.M.S. (Active Retired Men Serving) VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Thursdays • 8:00AM-12:00PM • donuts and coffee at 10:00AM This dedicated group works on various projects to keep the building in prime condition! We welcome both men and women of all ages and skill levels. noelc@cpconline.org
THE JOY OF GIVING
CPC is partnering with Lighthouse MPLS Church, led by Pastor Dee McIntosh, to provide gifts for the Webber Park Community. Over 3,000 gifts are needed to stock the Webber Gift Shop for people of all ages to select and purchase gifts for other members of their family. We need volunteers at CPC to receive gifts on December 1/2, 5, 8/9 and to deliver gifts and set up the Webber Gift Shop on December 14; you can also assist shoppers with buying their gifts on December 15 at Webber Park. You can learn more and sign up at: cpconline.org/events
many of whom are homeless, are invited to rest, watch the ball game, converse, or share in a friendly game of cards. Adult and child volunteers age 9 and up can sign up to volunteer online. Children under age 9 are welcome, but do not need to be registered. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
FAR GO!TRIP TO ISRAEL & PALESTINE INFORMATION SESSION
Sunday, January 13 • 10:30AM & 12:00PM • Room 205 Estimated cost (including airfare): $4,200.* Cost subject to change Our Israel-Palestine Task Force will host an information session for our trip to Israel and Palestine. Journey to the Holy Land with Pastor of Missions Emily Hamilton and visit our 2016 Global Scholars-in-Residence Yohanna and Dina Katanacho, and Nazareth Evangelical College. This trip includes an exciting itinerary combining ancient and new, historic and holy, all while building relationships with Israeli and Palestinian leaders and their families. We believe this will be an inspiring, eye-opening pilgrimage that will both deepen your faith and your understanding of the challenges facing our Christian friends in the Middle East. Contact: leslieb@cpconline.org for more information.
MISSION PARTNERS MISSION OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER
This year our Christmas Offering will benefit both a global and a local recipient who fight poverty through investing in children and their parents. Read about our partnerships with Urban Ventures and Word Vision on pages 6-7 to see the need and learn how they are responding. To give, mark your check memo “Christmas Offering” or give online: cpconline.org/give
HOLIDAY HOSTING FOR FAMILIES MOVING FORWARD
December 30-January 6 CPC will welcome our guests experiencing homelessness this holiday season. There are many opportunities to serve: provide a meal, bring some encouragement and cheer to the children, stay overnight, do laundry, and more. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
NEAR RING BELLS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY
Saturday, December 15 at Jerry’s Foods or December 17-21 at Lunds & Byerlys 50th & France All ages are welcome to participate in this fun activity! Sign up in the Great Room on December 1/2 and 8/9.
BLOOMINGTON LOAVES AND FISHES
Friday, December 21 • Third Friday of the month, year-round; Meal Prep: 2:00-4:00PM, Serve: 5:00-7:00PM • Creekside Community Center Individuals, small groups, and families with children are welcome! Meal Prep is best for volunteers ages 16 and older while serving is best for volunteers ages 7 and older. Sign up: cpconline.org/events
CALVARY DROP-IN MEALS
Sunday, December 23 • 12:30-3:00PM • Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Ave S, Minneapolis Help prepare a meal, serve food, and visit with guests. Nearly 100 guests,
CPC LIFE
| DECEMBER 2018
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Transition Pastor Search
We are currently searching for a Transition Pastor, who will play a vital role in the operational and administrative decisions for CPC as Pastor John Crosby retires. The Transition Pastor will serve as head of staff and be involved in management and strategic leadership, and will be regularly involved in worship with the opportunity to preach monthly. The Transition Pastor Opportunity Profile can be found at cpconline.org/transition. We encourage you to share this Opportunity Profile with your networks.
Pastor Crosby
The last time Pastor John will preach at CPC will be on Christmas Eve, when he will be speaking at all services. His official last day is January 15, at which point he and Laura expect to spend several months out of state for rest and discernment.
Pray with us!
The entire congregation is invited to join our prayer team as we ask for God’s wisdom, grace, unity, and abounding peace during this season of transition. Text “transition” to 555888 to receive one prayer text a week starting December 4.
Nominations for Senior Pastor Search Team
The Senior Pastor Search Team will consist of 9-12 active CPC members. We are looking for a balanced group of men and women who have a committed relationship with Jesus Christ, are engaged at CPC, committed to prayer, and who model humility and integrity. Information on the nomination process will be communicated in the upcoming weeks; for the most up-to-date information, visit cpconline.org/transition.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND GENEROSITY IN 2018! Commitment cards for 2019 can be mailed or placed in the offering plate, or you can make your commitment by automating your giving online. Visit cpconline.org/give.
YEAR-END GIVING
All contributions to the church must be received or postmarked by December 31, 2018 to be credited for 2018. You can mail your gift or drop it off in the CPC office at the north entrance through December 31 by 12:00PM (noon). Contributions made during services on December 29/30 will also be credited for 2018.
BIRTHS
RECENTLY HOSPITALIZED
Eric and Heather Anderson welcomed a daughter, Landrie Joy, on November 5.
Justine Van Beenan Mary Jo Carlson Pat Kattleman
Spencer and Mikaela Anderson welcomed a daughter, Mackenzie Spencer, on November 17.
Ray Book George Cole
STAFF UPDATES
Kevin and Amanda Erickson welcomed a daughter, Winnie Mae, on November 25.
Ashley Crowder joins Student Ministries as Interim Associate Director of Commitment Class. Her position will end in May. For clarity of roles and organizational structure, all staff titles have been reviewed and updated. The Personnel Committee has approved the changes.
MARRIAGES
Alex Ripp and Meg Hawksford were married on October 27. The Rev. Petey Crowder officiated.
FINANCIAL UPDATE
DEATHS
Bob Naegle passed away on November 7 at the age of 78. He is survived by his daughters Jill (John) Trautz and Trisha (Greg) Hoyt. Donald Nelson passed away on November 10 at the age of 76. He is survived by his daughter Christina (Judd) Stattine. Gladys Rose Brynildson passed away on November 16 at the age of 93. She is survived by her son Jeff (Greta). Marjorie Chandler Harnois passed away on November 16 at the age of 88. She is survived by her daughter Robbie Fast (Greg), and grandsons Charlie Fast and Eric Strandberg.
Missions YTD Total Missions Giving: $136,701 Ministry Fund Revenue/Expense Update September 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $1,151,645 September 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $1,108,720 October 2018 YTD Revenue Actual: $1,446,372 October 2018 YTD Revenue Budget: $1,432,795 YTD (10/31/2018) We are ahead of giving revenue by $13,577 We are under on expenses by $115,661
Evelyn Gans passed away on November 22 at the age of 95. She is survived by son Jeff (Linda) Gans and granddaughters Gretchen, Amanda, and Betsy.
N O W
A C C E P T I N G
Elder and Deacon Nominations! Elders
work with staff to discern God’s plan for CPC, leading and directing the church in areas of resources, personnel, and governance.
Deacons
function as the hands and feet of Jesus, serving practically in our community. Nominations can be dropped off by the Blue Wall in the Great Room or at the Main Office. You can also email a nomination to: Robbie Fast (rharnois@gsrgroupinc.com) to make an elder nomination or Debbie Ducar (debbied@cpconline.org) to make a deacon nomination.
CHRISTMAS EVE W O R S H I P
M O N D AY, D E C E M B E R 2 4
11:00AM, 1:00, 3:00, 5:00, 9:00, and 11:00PM SEE PAG E 4 F O R F U LL DE S C R I P T I ON OF S E RV I C E S & C HI L DCA R E .
S IM P LEG IF T S C HRIS TMAS C ONC ERT
T U E S D AY, D E C E M B E R 1 1
Doors open at 6:15PM, concert at 7:00PM SimpleG ift s an d Bi l l y M c L a ughl i n pres e nt t ra di t i ona l C h r ist mas c aro ls an d hym ns w i t h a m ode rn Ol d-Worl d s ound. Make an inv itat io n to f ri e nds to e nj oy t hi s popul a r group! Cost : $ 30/adu lt an d $ 2 0/s t ude nt s a nd s e ni ors ($ 3 5/ $ 2 5 at door)
P U R C H A S E T I C K E T S A T P A T H W AY B O O K S O R AT C P C O N L I N E . O R G/ E V E N T S
Christ Presbyterian Church | 952.920.8515 | cpconline.org | facebook.com/cpconline | @CPCEdina | #cpcedina